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In-Ground Pool Cost

$25,000Typical Cost
Homeowners in the US usually spend between $15,000 and $30,000 on building a pool.
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What others are spending on building a pool:
Typical Cost$25,000
Typical Range$15,000–$30,000
Low End$10,000
High End$60,000

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Cost to Build a Pool

How much does an in-ground pool cost to build?

It costs around $25,000 to build an in-ground pool. While the typical cost to build a pool can range from about $15,000 to $30,000, a high-end project can cost up to $60,000. The total cost of your project will depend on the size of the pool, as well as the materials and filtration system you choose.

Table of Contents:
  • How much does an in-ground pool cost to build?
  • What are the labor and installation costs of building an in-ground pool?
  • How much do different swimming pool materials cost?
  • How much do pool filtration and heating systems cost?
  • What other pool additions can affect cost?

Having a pool in your own backyard can be a big plus once summer rolls around. You’ll have everything you need to cool off and enjoy the sun right at home. And when it comes time to sell, a pool is sure to add value to your property. Still, the costs of in-ground pool installation are significant, so you’ll want to make sure you stay within your budget. This is a labor-intensive project that requires the work of a professional, so it’s wise to contact local swimming pool builders to get a few different cost estimates.


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What are the labor and installation costs of building an in-ground pool?

The typical in-ground swimming pool cost goes up the bigger the pool is, as more materials and more hours of labor are required to complete bigger projects. Pool contractors often charge for their time at a rate of around $15 to $35 an hour. It usually takes anywhere from one week to a few months to build a pool, depending on the materials used and various other conditions. You’ll also likely have a few contractors working on the pool at a time. In total, labor costs often range from $1,000 to $3,000. Of course, you’ll want to check with your pool building company ahead of time to learn about its rates and draft a plan for your new pool.

Before even beginning construction, a professional contractor will inspect your yard and obtain the proper building permits. Next, excavation can begin, followed by installing steel bars to support the basin of the pool. Any necessary plumbing will be installed before concrete is poured or whatever pool floor material you end up choosing is installed. Finally, the deck lining the border of the pool will be laid down, and the pool surface will be coated with a sealing finish. When all of this has been done, your pool will be ready to fill with water. As you can see, there are many steps involved in constructing an in-ground pool. Concrete pools will take the most amount of time, so you’ll have to factor in higher labor costs.

Want to add a lounge spot near your pool? Find pool deck design and construction contractors on Houzz.


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How much do different swimming pool materials cost?

The average cost of an in-ground pool will largely be affected by the materials you use. Pools typically have a concrete, vinyl or fiberglass bottom. All of these materials come at different price points, and have their own benefits and downsides. Read on to see which swimming pool material is right for you.

Concrete Pools

Concrete pools cost around $30,000, including installation. They’re more costly than vinyl but about the same price as fiberglass pools.

Pros:

  • Can be customized to whatever shape you like
  • Strong and durable
  • Longest-lasting pool material, more than 20 years
  • Can connect with sand areas
  • Better for creating waterfalls and rock features

Cons:

  • Takes a long time to build, potentially several months
  • High maintenance costs
  • Can feel rough underfoot
  • Not compatible with salt water
  • Requires more chemical use during installation
Fiberglass Pools

Fiberglass pools cost around $30,000, including installation. They cost about the same as concrete but more than vinyl pools.

Pros:

  • Smooth surface
  • Relatively quick installation, about a few weeks
  • Less need for algae-inhibiting chemicals
  • Requires less maintenance

Cons:

  • Lasts long but not as long as concrete, about 20 years
  • Shapes are not customizable
  • Cannot be used in deep pools
  • Might not look as good as concrete
Vinyl Pools

Vinyl liner pools typically cost around $25,000, including installation. They are the most affordable option but won’t last as long as concrete or fiberglass pools.

Pros:

  • Smooth surface
  • Inhibits algae from growing
  • Can be customized to whatever shape you like

Cons:

  • Doesn’t last as long, around 10 years
  • Requires more maintenance and chemical use over time
  • Might not look as good

Need help with the design? Find swimming pool designers on Houzz.



How much do pool filtration and heating systems cost?

The cost of the pool filtration and heating systems you choose will also affect the final cost of your new pool. Pool pumps push water through a filter to keep it clean throughout the day. Pumps typically cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000, depending on the type of energy they run on. Pool filters work in conjunction with pumps and range in cost from about $200 to $700. You should check with your contractor to see what type of filter might be best suited to your pool. Pool heaters typically cost around $1,500 to $3,500, including installation. Of course, if you plan to use your pool only in the warmer months, you might be able to forgo a heater.


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What other pool additions can affect cost?

Beyond the basics, you might want to add detailing or a special water feature to your pool to make it even more appealing, which will increase the cost. If you want your pool to blend beautifully with the rest of your backyard, get in touch with a pool landscaping contractor. When deciding which features to spring for, it’s wise to weigh the cost with the long-term value and enjoyment they’ll provide. Below you’ll find average costs for popular pool features.

  • Diving Boards: $300 to $600
  • Fencing: $1,000
  • Waterfalls: $500 to $10,000
  • Lighting: $150 to $750 each
  • Hot Tub: $15,000 to $20,000

Besides individual features, the materials and finishes you use around the pool could also affect price. Tiles and stones look beautiful around a pool’s edge but will cost more than a simple concrete border. Keep in mind that you can always update these finishes later on rather than doing everything at once. And if you’re on a budget but still want a place to cool off in the backyard, consider building a small pool. With a more affordable small pool, you might be able to budget for landscaping and extra features like rock formations and waterfalls.